New research shows operators prioritizing uptime, AI-driven operations, and charger utilization as networks mature
The 2026 State of EV Charging Network Operators Report, based on industry data gathered from 300 senior EV charging professionals across North America and Europe has been released.
The findings reveal a decisive industry shift from rapid infrastructure build-out toward what Driivz calls ‘intelligent profitability’ or the optimization of uptime, utilization and operations rather than simply deploying more chargers.
Among the report’s key findings:
- 59% of operators cite charger reliability and stability as the industry’s top challenge, overtaking energy constraints for the first time in the report’s history
- 67% say AI is “very important” or “critical” to company growth
- 59% rank increased charger utilization as the industry’s top profitability driver
- 47% prioritize 24/7 network availability and 43% prioritize seamless authentication to ensure good charging experiences in 2026
“The EV charging industry is rapidly maturing, shifting from a focus on deployment to operational intelligence,” said Shiri Levi-Laor, CEO of Driivz. “Those who deliver reliable, highly utilized networks powered by real-time operational insight and seamless driver experience at scale will define the next generation of companies leading the industry. AI does not go far enough; true intelligence in the charging ecosystem will come from the strength and quality of operational data driving every decision.”
Read more about the report here.
